WV Hopes Facebook Project Establishes the State as a Fiber Backbone Route

Facebook plans to build a fiber optic network from Ashburn, VA to Columbus, Ohio to connect two major internet exchanges. The work is expected to begin this year, and last between 18 to 24 months.

U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and West Virginia Governor Jim Justice said about 275 miles of the route will be in West Virginia, providing the state with enhanced fiber optic connectivity.

As a result of the project, broadband providers will be able to expand middle-mile networks into communities along the route, and it will establish West Virginia as a preferred route for fiber backbone construction, they say in the announcement.

The project came about after Capito discussed it with Facebook Founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg during a Senate Commerce Committee hearing. “Making sure West Virginia has reliable, high-speed internet has been a priority of mine since I was first elected to Congress,” Capito said. She called the Facebook project, “an important step toward ensuring our state has the critical infrastructure to support broadband deployment. I know it will help so many in our state, especially the rural communities that are unserved.”

Capito continued: “I’m excited for what a fully connected West Virginia can offer the rest of the country, as well as what it can do for the future of our state.” The announcement, brings us another step closer to achieving that goal.” Comments?Email Us.